Traffic signaling apparatus

ABSTRACT

In one aspect, traffic signaling apparatus are described herein. In some embodiments, a traffic signaling apparatus described herein comprises a first traffic light structure and a second traffic light structure. The second traffic light structure is operable to display a plurality of traffic signals, such as a red traffic signal and a green traffic signal. Further, the second traffic light structure is attached to a horizontal or substantially horizontal cable or to a horizontal or substantially horizontal mast arm. Moreover, the first traffic light structure is attached to the second traffic light structure or to the mast arm by a pole. Additionally, in some cases, the first traffic light structure is disposed at least three feet above the second traffic light structure. The first traffic light structure can also be substantially vertically aligned with the second traffic light structure.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a U.S. national stage application under 35 U.S.C.§371 of International Application No. PCT/US2014/068501, filed Dec. 4,2014, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 61/912,292, filed on Dec. 5, 2013, each ofwhich is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

This invention relates to traffic signals, and, in particular, totraffic signaling apparatus and methods of displaying traffic signalsconfigured to improve traffic safety.

BACKGROUND

Traffic signaling apparatus such as traffic lights can be used to manageand facilitate the flow of traffic through an intersection or otherarea. However, in some cases, traffic signals cannot be easily seen bydrivers until they are in or near the intersection itself. Trafficlights disposed above the intersection on a pole or a wire, as opposedto on the side of the roadway, may be especially difficult to see insome circumstances. For example, some drivers may have their visionimpaired when approaching an intersection behind a large or tallvehicle, such as a 16- or 18-wheeler tractor-trailer vehicle, a farmvehicle, a commercial bus, a school bus, a military vehicle, a boattrailer, an automobile transport vehicle, a sport utility vehicle, orsome other large or tall vehicle. As a result, a driver approaching anintersection behind a large or tall vehicle may inadvertently enter theintersection contrary to the signal presented by the traffic light,which can lead to a collision.

Therefore, there exists a need for improved traffic signaling apparatus,and methods of displaying traffic signals, that provide increasedvisibility of traffic signals to drivers approaching intersections,including behind a tall vehicle.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, traffic signaling apparatus are described herein which,in some embodiments, may provide one or more advantages over previoustraffic signaling apparatus. For instance, in some cases, a trafficsignaling apparatus described herein can be used to increase thevisibility of a traffic signal in an intersection when a driver's viewis at least partially obstructed by a large or tall vehicle. Inaddition, a traffic signaling apparatus described herein can also besimple and/or modular, permitting the facile retrofitting of existingtraffic lights to improve traffic safety. Further, a traffic signalingapparatus described herein, in some instances, has an adjustable size inat least one dimension, thereby permitting the apparatus to bereversibly modified as needed for a specific intersection.

In some embodiments, a traffic signaling apparatus described hereincomprises a first traffic light structure and a second traffic lightstructure. The second traffic light structure is operable to display aplurality of traffic signals, such as a red traffic signal and a greentraffic signal. Further, the second traffic light structure is attachedto a horizontal or substantially horizontal cable or to a horizontal orsubstantially horizontal mast arm. Moreover, the first traffic lightstructure is attached to the second traffic light structure or to themast arm by a pole. Additionally, in some cases, the first traffic lightstructure is disposed at least three feet above the second traffic lightstructure. The first traffic light structure can also be substantiallyvertically aligned with the second traffic light structure. In thismanner, the first traffic light structure and the second traffic lightstructure of the apparatus can have a stacked configuration.

Further, the first traffic light structure and the second traffic lightstructure of an apparatus described herein can be configured tosimultaneously display the same type of traffic signal. For example, insome embodiments, the first traffic light structure is operable tosimultaneously display a red traffic signal displayed by the secondtraffic light structure. In addition, in some cases, the first trafficlight structure is also operable to simultaneously display a greentraffic signal displayed by the second traffic light structure.Similarly, in some embodiments, the first traffic light structure isoperable to simultaneously display a yellow traffic signal displayed bythe second traffic light structure.

In another aspect, methods of displaying traffic signals are describedherein which, in some embodiments, may provide one or more advantagesover previous methods of displaying traffic signals. In some cases, forinstance, a method of displaying traffic signals described herein canprovide drivers with a secondary set of traffic signals that may be morevisible to some drivers than a primary set of traffic signals, whereinthe secondary set of traffic signals repeats or matches the primary setof traffic signals.

In some embodiments, a method of displaying traffic signals comprisesdisplaying a first traffic signal in a first traffic light structure andsimultaneously displaying a second traffic signal in a second trafficlight structure below the first traffic light structure. In addition,the second traffic signal can be the same type of traffic signal as thefirst traffic signal. For example, the second traffic signal and thefirst traffic signal can both be a “red” or “stop” signal. Moreover, insome cases, a method described herein can further comprise displaying athird traffic signal in the first traffic light structure andsimultaneously displaying a fourth traffic signal in the second trafficlight structure, wherein the fourth traffic signal is the same type oftraffic signal as the third traffic signal. For example, the thirdtraffic signal and the fourth traffic signal can both be a “green” or“go” signal. Further, a method described herein can also comprisedisplaying a fifth traffic signal in the first traffic light structureand simultaneously displaying a sixth traffic signal in the secondtraffic light structure, wherein the sixth traffic signal is the sametype of traffic signal as the fifth traffic signal. For example, thefifth traffic signal and the sixth traffic signal can both be an “amber”or “caution” signal. Other configurations of first, second, third,fourth, fifth, and sixth traffic signals are also possible, includingconfigurations for directing turning traffic as well as traffictraveling straight through an intersection. Thus, in someimplementations, a method described herein can be used to displaycomplex and multi-directional traffic signals in a safe and highlyvisible manner.

The first and second traffic light structures of a method describedherein can have any configuration described herein for a trafficsignaling apparatus. For instance, in some cases, the second trafficlight structure is at least three feet below the first traffic lightstructure. Moreover, in some instances, the first traffic lightstructure and the second traffic light structure are substantiallyvertically aligned. Additionally, in some embodiments, the first trafficlight structure is attached by a pole to the second traffic lightstructure or to a substantially horizontal mast arm, and the secondtraffic light structure is attached to the same mast arm or to asubstantially horizontal cable.

Moreover, in some cases, the first traffic light structure of a methoddescribed herein is operable to display a single traffic signal. Forexample, in some embodiments, the single traffic signal is a first redsignal, and the second traffic signal simultaneously displayed by thesecond traffic light structure is a second red signal. In some suchinstances, the method can further comprise displaying a green signal inthe second traffic light structure, wherein the green signal is notsimultaneously displayed in the first traffic light structure. Thus, insome cases, the first traffic light structure of a method describedherein can be operable to display only one type of traffic signalsimultaneously with the second traffic light structure. Moreover, insome embodiments, the first traffic light structure comprises a firstsignal light operable to display the first traffic signal, the secondtraffic light structure comprise a second signal light operable todisplay the second traffic signal, and the first signal light is largerthan the second signal light.

These and other embodiments are described in greater detail in thedetailed description which follows.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1A illustrates a frontal view of a traffic signaling apparatusaccording to one embodiment described herein.

FIG. 1B illustrates a side view of the traffic signaling apparatus ofFIG. 1A.

FIG. 2A illustrates a frontal view of a traffic signaling apparatusaccording to one embodiment described herein.

FIG. 2B illustrates a side view of the traffic signaling apparatus ofFIG. 2A.

FIG. 3 illustrates a frontal view of a traffic signaling apparatusaccording to one embodiment described herein.

FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of an attachment plate configured toattach a first traffic light structure to a second traffic lightstructure according to one embodiment of a traffic signaling apparatusdescribed herein.

FIG. 5A illustrates a frontal view of a traffic signaling apparatusaccording to one embodiment described herein.

FIG. 5B illustrates a side view of the traffic signaling apparatus ofFIG. 5A.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a traffic signaling apparatusaccording to one embodiment described herein in operation in a trafficenvironment.

FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of a traffic signaling apparatusaccording to one embodiment described herein in operation in a trafficenvironment.

FIG. 8 illustrates a frontal view of a traffic signaling apparatusaccording to one embodiment described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments described herein can be understood more readily by referenceto the following detailed description and drawings. Elements, apparatus,and methods described herein, however, are not limited to the specificembodiments presented in the detailed description and drawings. Itshould be recognized that these embodiments are merely illustrative ofthe principles of the present invention. Numerous modifications andadaptations will be readily apparent to those of skill in the artwithout departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

In addition, all ranges disclosed herein are to be understood toencompass any and all subranges subsumed therein. For example, adisclosed range of “1.0 to 10.0” should be considered to include any andall subranges beginning with a minimum value of 1.0 or more and endingwith a maximum value of 10.0 or less, e.g., 1.0 to 5.3, or 4.7 to 10.0,or 3.6 to 7.9.

All ranges disclosed herein are also to be considered to include the endpoints of the range, unless expressly stated otherwise. For example, arange of “between 5 and 10” should generally be considered to includethe end points 5 and 10.

I. Traffic Signaling Apparatus

In one aspect, traffic signaling apparatuses are described herein. Insome embodiments, a traffic signaling apparatus described hereincomprises a first traffic light structure and a second traffic lightstructure, the second traffic light structure being attached to ahorizontal or substantially horizontal cable or a horizontal orsubstantially horizontal mast arm. The first traffic light structure isattached to the second traffic light structure or the mast aim by apole. For example, in some cases, a traffic signaling apparatusdescribed herein comprises a first traffic light structure and a poleattached to the first traffic light structure, wherein the pole isconfigured to attach the first traffic light structure to a secondtraffic light structure in a stacked configuration, and wherein thefirst traffic light structure is operable to simultaneously display thesame traffic signals as displayed by the second traffic light structure.

A “stacked” configuration, for reference purposes herein, is aconfiguration in which one traffic light structure is disposed above theother traffic light structure in the vertical dimension, as opposed tobeing disposed, for example, beside the other traffic light structure inthe horizontal dimension to provide a lateral configuration of the firstand second traffic light structures.

In some embodiments, the first and second traffic light structures canalso be substantially vertically aligned. A “substantially verticallyaligned” configuration indicates that the first and second trafficlights are less than two feet, less than one foot, or less than 6 inchesoffset in a horizontal direction, such as a direction to the right orleft. Further, it is to be understood that in a substantially verticallyaligned configuration, a first traffic light structure can be disposedin front of, behind, above, or below the second traffic light structure.Substantial horizontal vertical alignment of traffic light structuresdescribed herein, in some embodiments, can reduce confusion of driversentering an intersection as to which traffic light structures aredisplaying corresponding signals.

Further, a “substantially” horizontal mast arm or cable, as used herein,refers to a mast arm or cable that is disposed in a generally horizontalmanner, as opposed to a generally vertical manner. Thus, in some cases,a “substantially” horizontal mast arm or cable is disposed at an angleless than about 45 degrees, less than about 30 degrees, less than about15 degrees, less than about 10 degrees, or less than about 5 degreesfrom horizontal. However, it is to be understood that a portion of a“substantially” horizontal mast arm or cable may form some other anglewith the horizontal, such that the mast arm or cable has an overallarcuate shape, provided that the mast arm or cable is disposed in agenerally horizontal manner.

A “simultaneous” display of a plurality of traffic signals, forreference purposes herein, is a display of the traffic signals at thesame time or substantially the same time from the perspective of a humanobserver, such that the ordinary human observer would perceive anychange of the traffic signals at the same time and without a noticeabledelay between the change of a first traffic signal and the change of asecond traffic signal. For instance, in some embodiments, simultaneouslydisplayed traffic signals are displayed within about 100 ms or less orwithin about 50 ms or less of one another. In some cases, simultaneouslydisplayed traffic signals are displayed within about 30 ms or less,within about 20 ms or less, or within about 10 ms or less of oneanother.

Displaying the “same traffic signals,” for reference purposes herein,means that the signals displayed simultaneously by the first and secondtraffic light structures provide the same information or instructions todrivers. For example, a first traffic signal displayed by a firsttraffic light structure and a second traffic signal displayed by asecond traffic light structure may both be green “go” lights indicatingthat it should be safe for a driver to enter an intersection. In anotherinstance, a first traffic signal displayed by a first traffic lightstructure and a second traffic signal displayed by a second trafficlight structure may both be flashing yellow or amber “caution” lightsindicating that the traffic signaling apparatus is not working properlyand/or that special caution is required for some other reason. Further,a first traffic signal displayed by a first traffic light structure anda second traffic signal displayed by a second traffic light structuremay both be red “stop” lights indicating that it is not safe for adriver to enter an intersection. However, it is to be understood thatthe size, shape, or other characteristic of the first and second trafficsignals may or may not be the same, provided both signals provide thesame information or instructions to drivers.

A traffic signaling apparatus described herein, in some embodiments,further comprises one or more other components, such as electricalwiring extending from the first traffic light structure of the trafficsignaling apparatus and toward a second traffic light structure, and/orelectrical wiring extending from a location external to both of thefirst and second traffic light structures to the respective structures,one or more wireless communication or signaling components, one or morecounterweights, or one or more connection or attachment components suchas one or more attachment plates or hangers, as described furtherhereinbelow.

Turning now to specific components, traffic signaling apparatusesdescribed herein, in some embodiments, comprise a first traffic lightstructure that can be attached to at least one second traffic lightstructure. In some cases, the second traffic light structure is itselfpart of the traffic signaling apparatus. Alternatively, in other cases,the second traffic light structure is not itself part of the trafficsignaling apparatus but can instead be attached to the traffic signalingapparatus in a manner described herein. Further, in some embodiments,the first traffic light structure is attached to a mast arm in place of,or in addition to, attachment to the second traffic light structure. Thesecond traffic light structure, in general, can be attached to a cableor a mast arm.

The first and/or second traffic light structures of a traffic signalingapparatus described herein can have any structure or configuration notinconsistent with the objectives of the present invention. In someembodiments, for example, a traffic light structure described hereincomprises an automotive roadway traffic light having a structure orconfiguration that complies with the current Manual on Uniform TrafficControl Devices (MUTCD) issued by the Federal Highway Administration ofthe United States Department of Transportation, the entirety of which ishereby incorporated by reference. In some embodiments, a traffic lightstructure described herein has one light, including a green light or ared light. In some instances, a traffic light structure described hereinhas at least two lights, including at least one green light and at leastone red light. In other cases, a traffic light structure has at leastthree lights, including at least one green light, at least one yellow oramber light, and at least one red light. Moreover, a light of a trafficlight structure described herein can be a round or circular light, or anarrow-shaped light, as needed or desired for a specific roadwayintersection or other traffic context. Other shapes may also be used. A“signal light” or “light,” as used herein, refers to a single signalingassembly configured or adapted to provide a contiguous light signal,which stands in contrast to an individual light bulb or light source. A“signal light” or “light” may refer to an individual light bulb or to anarray of bulbs, LEDs, or other light emission structures adapted forsuch purposes. In general, any combination of traffic or signal lightnumber, color, size, and shape not inconsistent with the objectives ofthe present invention can be used in a traffic light structure describedherein. In some cases, for instance, one or more signal lights of atraffic light structure described herein has a diameter or maximum widthof about 8 inches to 12 inches. Other sizes may also be used.

In addition, the first and second traffic light structures of a trafficsignaling apparatus described herein can have the same size, shape,and/or construction, or differing sizes, shapes, and/or constructions.For example, in some embodiments, the first and second traffic lightstructures have substantially the same shape and are both formed fromthe same materials, such as plastic and/or metal, but have differingsizes. In some cases, the first traffic light structure is smallerand/or lighter than the second traffic light structure. In other cases,the first traffic light structure is larger than the second trafficlight structure. Moreover, as described further hereinbelow, it is alsopossible for the first traffic light structure to be associated withmore than one second traffic light structure. In such embodiments, theplurality of second traffic light structures may have the same ordiffering sizes, shapes, and/or constructions as one another.

A traffic signaling apparatus described herein, in some embodiments,also comprises a pole. In some cases, the pole is attached to the firsttraffic light structure and is configured to attach the first trafficlight structure to one or more second traffic light structures in astacked configuration. Alternatively, in other instances, the pole canbe configured to attach the first traffic light structure to a mast arm,as described further hereinbelow. The pole can have any size, shape, orconstruction not inconsistent with the objectives of the presentinvention. In some embodiments, for instance, the pole is formed from arelatively strong and/or lightweight material, such as a metal such asaluminum, a plastic such as PVC, a composite material, or a combinationthereof. Other materials may also be used. In some cases, the pole of atraffic signaling apparatus described herein has a round cross-sectionsuch as a circular or oval cross-section. In other instances, the polehas a polygonal cross-section such as a square, rectangular, orhexagonal cross-section. Further, the pole can be a hollow pole or asolid pole. In some cases, the pole can also be at least partiallythreaded to facilitate attachment of the pole to a first and/or secondtraffic light structure and/or to a horizontal mast arm. The pole of atraffic signaling apparatus described herein can also have a straight,tubular shape or a bent or curved shape, such as an elbowed shape or anS-shape.

The pole of a traffic signaling apparatus described herein can also haveany desired diameter and/or length not inconsistent with the objectivesof the present invention. In some embodiments, for instance, the lengthof the pole is at least about 2 feet, at least about 3 feet, such asabout 2.5 feet to about 10 feet, about 3 feet to about 10 feet, about 3feet to about 6 feet, about 3 feet to about 7 feet, about 3 feet toabout 8 feet, about 3.5 feet to about 10 feet, about 3.5 feet to about 7feet, about 3.5 feet to about 8 feet, or about 3.5 feet to about 6 feet.In addition, in some embodiments, the pole of a traffic signalingapparatus described herein has an adjustable length. For example, insome cases, the pole is formed from a plurality of pole segments whichcan be configured to overlap with one another by differing amounts asdesired by a user to achieve an overall, total length of the pole. Sucha pole, in some instances, can be a telescoping pole or a pole havinginterlocking segments which can be locked in place, such as by means ofone or more rails, collars, sleeves, slots, anchors, bolts, screws,pegs, buttons, protrusions, or a combination thereof. In addition, insome cases, a pole of an apparatus described herein can be configured oradapted to provide a vertical spacing between the first traffic lightstructure and the second traffic light structure of the apparatus, asdescribed further hereinbelow.

Moreover, a traffic signaling apparatus described herein, in someembodiments, further comprises electrical wiring (e.g., 150 in FIGS. 1Aand 1B). In some cases, the electrical wiring extends from the firsttraffic light structure of the traffic signaling apparatus and toward asecond traffic light structure. Alternatively, in other instances,electrical wiring can extend from a power source or other locationexternal to both of the first traffic light structure and the secondtraffic light structure, and can connect to the traffic light structuresindividually. Any electrical wiring not inconsistent with the objectivesof the present invention may be used. The wiring can be operable toestablish an electrical connection (e.g., 350 in FIG. 1A) between thefirst traffic light structure and the second traffic light structure orbetween the external power/signal source (e.g., 410 in FIG. 1A) and thefirst and second traffic light structures, respectively. For example,the wiring can comprise one or more jumper wires. A jumper wire, in somecases, can be connected on one end of the wire to a circuit or otherelectrical component associated with the activation of a traffic lightof the first traffic structure, and on the other end to a circuit orother electrical component associated with the activation of acorresponding traffic light of the second traffic structure. Thus, aparticular jumper wire extending between the first traffic lightstructure and the second traffic light structure can allow a singlecontrol box or other controller to send the same signal or command toboth the first and second traffic light structures simultaneously. Forexample, a signal or command for the green light of the traffic lightstructure to illuminate or stop illuminating could be sentsimultaneously or substantially simultaneously to both the first andsecond traffic light structures. Further, electrical wiring extendingbetween the first and second traffic light structures can compriseadditional jumper wires having an analogous configuration with respectto other lights, such as the yellow lights or the red lights of thefirst and second traffic light structures. In this manner, theelectrical wiring can permit or enable the simultaneous display of thesame traffic signals by both the first traffic light structure and thesecond traffic light structure. Moreover, in some embodiments, the firsttraffic light structure may be configured to receive a traffic signalfrom the second light structure (or vice versa), such that the trafficsignal is displayed by the first and second traffic light structures inseries or in a repeating fashion. Further, in some cases, electricalwiring of a traffic signaling apparatus described herein is disposedwithin the pole connected to the first traffic light structure, such aswhen a hollow pole is used. In this manner, the pole can be used toprotect the electrical wiring from various environmental conditions.Other configurations of electrical wiring can also be used, asunderstood by one ordinary skill in the art.

Further, in some embodiments, a traffic signaling apparatus describedherein can comprise one or more wireless communication or signalingcomponents (e.g., 510 in FIG. 6). Any wireless communication orsignaling components not inconsistent with the objectives of the presentinvention may be used. In some cases, one or more wireless signaling orcommunication components can be used in addition to or instead ofelectrical wiring described herein to permit a traffic signalingapparatus or a traffic light structure to receive, relay, and/or displaya traffic signal, including in a simultaneous manner described herein.Thus, in some embodiments, one or more signaling components, such as oneor more computerized controllers, can be in wireless communication(e.g., 520 in FIG. 6) with the first and/or second traffic lightstructure to provide simultaneous display of traffic signals describedherein. Moreover, other configurations and methods for simultaneouslydisplaying traffic signals and/or electrically connecting or puttingfirst and second traffic light structures in signal communication withone another are also possible, as understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art.

Additionally, in some embodiments, a traffic signaling apparatusdescribed herein comprises at least one counterweight. Further, one ormore counterweights can be configured to maintain the first trafficlight structure in a desired position, such as a substantially verticalposition and/or a position above the second light traffic structure. A“substantially” vertical position, for reference purposes here,comprises a position within about 15 degrees, within about 10 degrees,or within about 5 degrees of a position normal to the ground. Acounterweight of a traffic signaling apparatus described herein can beformed of any material, have any weight, and be positioned in anyconfiguration on the traffic signaling apparatus not inconsistent withthe objectives of the present invention.

Some embodiments of traffic signaling apparatus will now be furtherdescribed with reference to the drawings. FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate atraffic signaling apparatus according to one embodiment describedherein. The traffic signaling apparatus of FIGS. 1A and 1B comprises afirst traffic light structure (100) and a pole (200) attached to thefirst traffic light structure (100). The pole (200) attaches the firsttraffic light structure (100) to a second traffic light structure (300).Both the first and second traffic light structures (100, 300) can beused to display traffic signals for directing the flow of traffic in anintersection, as illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7. In the embodiment ofFIGS. 1A and 1B, the first traffic light structure (100) comprises threetraffic lights (110, 120, 130) arranged in a column or stackedconfiguration, and the second traffic light structure (300) alsocomprises three traffic lights (310, 320, 330) arranged in a column orstacked configuration. The traffic light structures (100, 300) each havea red light (110, 310) on top, a yellow or amber light (120, 320) in themiddle, and a green light (130, 330) on the bottom. The traffic lights(110, 120, 130, 310, 320, 330) can be used to provide information orinstructions to drivers of automobiles approaching an intersection, asdescribed further herein. Alternatively, the first traffic lightstructure (100) can be connected to a horizontal mast arm (not shown) asdescribed further hereinbelow. However, as understood by one of ordinaryskill in the art, other configurations of traffic lights are alsopossible, as shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B and 3, for instance.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 2A and 2B, the first traffic light structure(100) can have a single signal light, such as a red light (110), and canbe attached to a pole (200). The pole (200) can attach the first trafficlight structure (100) to the second traffic light structure (300) or, asdescribed further hereinbelow, to a horizontal mast arm (not shown). Thesingle signal light, such as the red light (110), can be operable tosimultaneously display a traffic signal displayed by the second trafficlight structure (300), such as a red “stop” light produced by the redlight (310) of the second traffic light signal. In some embodiments, thesingle signal light or red light (110) is smaller than the signal lightsof the second traffic light structure (300), such as the red, amber, orgreen lights (310, 320, 330). In other cases, the single signal light orred light (110) is the same size or larger than the signal lights of thesecond traffic light structure (300), such as the red, amber or greenlights (310, 320, 330). For example, in some instances, the singlesignal light (110) has a diameter of about 12 inches, and the red light(310) has a diameter of about 8 inches. In embodiments wherein the firstred signal light (110) is larger than the second red signal light (310),visibility of the stop signal may be increased for a driver entering theintersection.

In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the first and second traffic lightstructures (100, 300) include traffic lights (110, 120, 130, 140, 150,310, 320, 330, 340, 350) that can be used for more complex trafficpatterns, including patterns comprising multiple lanes of trafficapproaching or passing through an intersection from the same direction.In such an embodiment, one or more of the traffic lights of the sametype (e.g., green) in the same traffic light structure can beilluminated in tandem. For example, both of the green lights (330, 350)could be illuminated together, such as when two lanes of traffic aredirected by the same traffic light structure. Alternatively, in othercases, a first green light (330) could be a solid or “straight” greenlight, and a second green light (350) could be a left turn arrow greenlight. In such instances, the two green lights (330, 350) may or may notbe illuminated separately or in tandem. Other patterns of traffic lightsare also possible, and any combination of lights not inconsistent withthe objectives of the present invention may be used.

In the embodiments of FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2A, 2B and 3, the first trafficlight structure (100) and the second traffic light structure (300) areconnected or attached to one another by a pole (200). However, asdescribed further hereinbelow, it is to be understood that the firsttraffic light structure (100) can be attached to a mast arm in place of,or in addition to, being attached to the second traffic light structure(300). As described herein, the pole (200) can have a length adapted toprovide a desired total height of the first traffic light structure(100) and/or a desired height of one or more traffic lights (110, 120,130) above an intersection or above one or more traffic lights (310,320, 330) of the second traffic light structure (300). For example, thetotal height of the first traffic light structure (100) and/or one ormore traffic lights (110, 120, 130) can have a value X. In some cases, Xcan have a value greater than about 3 feet, greater than about 5 feet,greater than about 7 feet, or greater than about 10 feet. In someembodiments, X can have a value between about 3 feet and about 12 feet,between about 5 feet and about 12 feet, or between about 6 feet andabout 10 feet. In addition, a first traffic light (110) within the firsttraffic light structure (100) can be disposed a certain distance above afirst traffic light (310) within the second traffic light structure(300), wherein the distance can have a value Y. In some cases, Y canhave a value greater than about 3 feet, greater than about 5 feet,greater than about 7 feet, or greater than about 10 feet. In someembodiments, Y can have a value between about 3 feet and about 12 feet,between about 5 feet and about 12 feet, or between about 6 feet andabout 10 feet. Further, the first traffic light structure (100) can bedisposed at a distance Z above the second traffic light structure (300).In some cases, Z can have a value greater than about 2 feet, greaterthan about 2.5 feet, greater than about 3 feet, greater than about 5feet, greater than about 7 feet, or greater than about 10 feet. In someembodiments, Z can have a value between about 2.5 feet and about 10feet, between about 3 feet and about 12 feet, between about 3 feet andabout 6 feet, between about 5 feet and about 12 feet, or between about 6feet and about 10 feet.

Moreover, as illustrated in FIG. 1B, the pole (200) can also have ashape or other configuration adapted to permit the placement of thefirst traffic light structure (100) in a stacked configuration centeredabove the second traffic light structure (300), wherein the “centered”configuration can be in a front-back dimension and/or a left-rightdimension. Such a configuration, in some cases, can provide improvedstability to a traffic signaling apparatus described herein,particularly for embodiments wherein at least a portion of the trafficsignaling apparatus is suspended from or attached to a cable or wire.Further, the first traffic light structure (100) can be substantiallyvertically aligned with the second traffic light structure (300),whether attached by the pole to the second traffic light structure (300)or to a horizontal mast arm. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1B,the pole (200) is represented in a manner intended to indicate that thepole (200) can be of any length consistent with the present invention,and that bends, turns, or other pole (200) configurations arecontemplated within the illustration of FIG. 1B.

Additionally, as described herein, the pole (200) may be configured toremovably attach to the first traffic light structure (100) and/or thesecond traffic light structure (300) in a modular and/or facile manner,such that the pole (200) can be repeatedly attached to or removed fromthe first and/or second traffic light structure (100, 300) in a rapidand/or convenient manner, as needed or desired by a user. Such a modularconfiguration can provide ease of interchangeability or repair of one ormore components of a traffic signaling apparatus described herein andmay be particularly useful when a traffic signaling apparatus comprisinga first traffic light structure attached to a pole as described hereinis used to upgrade or retrofit a previously existing second trafficlight structure.

In some embodiments, the pole (200) of a traffic signaling apparatus canbe attached to a second traffic light structure (300) using anattachment plate (400), which may or may not be part of the secondtraffic light structure (300). For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 1A,1B, 2A, 2B, and 3, an attachment plate (400) can form the top of thesecond traffic light structure (300) and can be adapted to attach thefirst traffic light structure (100) and the pole (200) to the secondtraffic light structure (300). The attachment plate (400) can have anyconfiguration for this purpose not inconsistent with the objectives ofthe present invention. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 4, whichis a top view of attachment plate (400) as viewed along the broken lineindicated in FIG. 1A, the attachment plate (400) has a semi-ellipticalshape that corresponds to the top of a second traffic light structureand further comprises a plurality of cavities, conduits, or connectors(410, 420) for receiving the pole (200) and/or another component of thetraffic signaling apparatus, such as a hanger (500). The diameter of thecavities, conduits, or connectors (410, 420) can vary to accommodate avariety of shapes and sizes of pole (200) and/or hanger (500). Otherconfigurations of an attachment plate (400) are also possible. Forexample, the attachment plate (400) of a traffic signaling apparatusdescribed herein may also be formed in a square, rectangle, circle,semi-circle, or other shape and/or include other structures forreceiving or attaching the pole (200), such as one or more clampingmechanisms, slots, sleeves, or threaded holes for receiving a threadedpole, bolt, screw, or other threaded attachment member.

The hanger (500) of a traffic signaling apparatus described herein, insome embodiments, can be configured to attach the second traffic lightstructure (300) or the entire traffic signaling apparatus to a cable orpower line structure for use in a traffic context, as illustrated inFIGS. 6 and 7 and described further herein below. For example, thehanger (500) can be used to suspend or otherwise attach or affix thetraffic signaling apparatus to a substantially horizontal cable line,pole, or other support structure for placement of the apparatus abovethe intersection of a roadway. Further, in some instances, the hanger(500) can also permit the first and second traffic light structures(100, 300) to be attached electrically to a power grid and/or a trafficlight controller or other traffic signal origination source (e.g., 410in FIG. 1A) (not shown).

Moreover, in some embodiments, a traffic signaling apparatus describedherein can further comprise one or more counterweights (W). Thecounterweights (W) can be positioned to help maintain a desiredorientation of one or more components of the traffic signalingapparatus. For example, in some cases, one or more counterweights (W)can be used to counterbalance the weight of a first traffic lightstructure (100) attached to and positioned above a second traffic lightstructure (300) in a stacked configuration, including for the purpose ofmaintaining the first and/or second traffic light structure (100, 300)in a vertical or substantially vertical orientation. In one non-limitingexample, for instance, the second traffic light structure (300) may haveaffixed to it a counterweight (W) in order to prevent or reduce tippingor swaying of the traffic signaling apparatus due to the weight andplacement of the first traffic light structure (100).

In addition to the foregoing embodiments, wherein the first trafficlight structure (100) is attached to the second traffic light structure(300) by a pole (200), FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate an embodiment whereinthe first traffic light structure (100) is attached by a pole (200) to ahorizontal mast arm (900). The second traffic light structure (300) isalso attached to the horizontal mast arm (900). The first traffic lightstructure (100) and pole (200) can be attached to the horizontal mastarm (900) in any manner or by any means not inconsistent with theobjectives of the present invention. For example, as illustrated in theside view of FIG. 5B, the pole (200) is attached by a fastener (920) tothe horizontal mast arm (900). The fastener (920) illustrated in FIG. 5Bis a bolt or pin, however other fasteners (920) are also contemplated,such as brackets, U-bolts, or the like. Similarly, the second trafficlight structure (300) can be attached to the horizontal mast arm (900)in any manner or by any means not inconsistent with the objectives ofthe present invention. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 5B, thesecond traffic light structure (300) is attached to a bracket (910), andthe bracket (910) is attached to the horizontal mast arm (900). Otherconfigurations may comprise or include a U-bolt, carrier bolt, lockingbolt, pin, or other structure adapted to attach the second traffic lightstructure (300) to the horizontal mast arm (900). Further, asillustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the pole (200) extends slightly belowthe mast aim (900), as much as 1-3 inches. In general, the pole (200)can extend to the bottom of the mast arm (900), beyond the bottom of themast arm (900), or to a distance above the bottom of the mast arm (900),as desired by a user. Generally, the overlap of the pole (200) with themast arm (900) can be selected to provide a desired number of attachmentpoints to the mast aim (900) and/or to provide a desired extension ofthe pole (200) below the bottom of the mast arm (900). Similarly, asillustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the pole (200) is attached to the bottomof the first light structure (100). However, it is also possible toattach the pole (200) to the back of the first light structure (100). Insuch an instance, the pole (200) may also extend above the top of thefirst light structure (100) by a desired distance. Such a configurationmay provide additional attachment points, stability, and/or modularityto the traffic signaling apparatus. In addition, the configurationillustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B is substantially vertically aligned, inthat the first traffic light structure (100) is within 2 feet, within 1foot, or within 6 inches of being directly above the second trafficlight structure (300), despite being disposed on an opposing side of themast arm (900). Other configurations are also possible. For example, insome cases, the first traffic light structure (100) can be above andbeside the second traffic light structure (300), such that the firsttraffic light structure (100) and the second traffic light structure(300) are not vertically aligned but are instead offset in thehorizontal direction (the direction to the left or right in FIG. 5A andorthogonal to the plane of the page in FIG. 5B). The horizontal offsetcan be any distance not inconsistent with the objectives of the presentdisclosure. In some implementations, for instance, the first trafficlight structure (100) and the second traffic light structure (300) arespaced apart in the horizontal direction by an amount up to about 5 feetor up to about 3 feet. Such a spacing distance can be measured as thedistance between the center of the first traffic light structure (100)and the center of the second traffic light structure (300) in thehorizontal direction.

In addition, it is to be understood that any configuration of a trafficsignaling apparatus described herein can also apply to more than onefirst traffic light structure and/or more than one second traffic lightstructure. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 8, a traffic signalingapparatus described herein, in some embodiments, can comprise aplurality of first traffic light structures (100) that correspond toand/or are configured to attach to a plurality of second traffic lightstructures (300). Further, in such an embodiment, the first trafficlight structures (100) can be attached to and/or placed in electricalcommunication with the plurality of second traffic light structures(300) in any manner not inconsistent with the objectives of the presentinvention, including by means of a configuration described hereinabove.In the embodiment of FIG. 8, the first traffic light structures (100)and the second traffic light structures (300) can each be attached to ahorizontal mast aim (900) in the manner illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B.Specifically, in the embodiment of FIG. 8, the first traffic lightstructures (100) and the poles (200) are attached to the horizontal mastarm (900) and are substantially vertically aligned to correspondingsecond traffic light structures (300). However, other configurations arealso possible. As illustrated in FIG. 8, each individual second trafficlight structure (300) and the first traffic light structure (100) aboveit may correspond to an individual lane of traffic approaching theintersection (not shown). Thus, the number of first and second trafficlight structures (100, 300) may vary based on the number of lanesapproaching the intersection. Additionally, it is to be understood thatthe second traffic light structures (300) in FIG. 8 may display the sametraffic signals at the same time, or may display differing signals fromone another, provided that each first traffic light structure (100)simultaneously displays a traffic signal corresponding to a trafficsignal displayed by the second traffic light structure (300) beneath it.

II. Methods of Displaying Traffic Signals

In another aspect, methods of displaying traffic signals are describedherein. In some embodiments, a method of displaying traffic signalscomprises displaying a first traffic signal in a first traffic lightstructure and simultaneously displaying a second traffic signal in asecond traffic light structure below the first traffic light structure,wherein the second traffic signal is the same type of traffic signal asthe first traffic signal. Moreover, in some cases, the method furthercomprises displaying a third traffic signal in the first traffic lightstructure and simultaneously displaying a fourth traffic signal in thesecond traffic light structure, wherein the fourth traffic signal is thesame type of traffic signal as the third traffic signal. In addition,the method can further comprise displaying a fifth traffic signal in thefirst traffic light structure and simultaneously displaying a sixthtraffic signal in the second traffic light structure, wherein the fifthtraffic signal is the same type of traffic signal as the sixth trafficsignal. In such cases, the first, third, and fifth traffic signals canbe displayed sequentially in the first traffic light structure, suchthat only one of the signals is displayed at a time. Similarly, thesecond, fourth, and sixth traffic signals can be displayed sequentiallyin the second traffic light structure. For example, in some embodiments,the first and second traffic signals could be red lights or “stop”signals indicating that it is not safe for a driver to enter theintersection. The third and fourth traffic signals could be green lightsor “go” signals indicating it should be safe for a driver to enter anintersection. The fifth and sixth traffic signals could be yellow lightsor “caution” signals indicating that it will soon not be safe for adriver to enter the intersection. Additional pairs of traffic signalscan also be displayed in the first and second traffic light structuresin a similar manner, as needed or desired. A method of displayingtraffic signals described herein, in some cases, can thus improvetraffic safety by simultaneously providing two sets of identical trafficsignals for drivers approaching an intersection. The set of signalsdisplayed sequentially in the higher, first traffic light structure can,in some instances, be visible to a driver approaching the intersectionunder circumstances in which the set of signals displayed in the lower,second traffic light structure are not visible. For example, the set ofsignals displayed in the second traffic light structure may beobstructed by a tall vehicle described herein.

In other embodiments, the first traffic signal can be operable todisplay a single traffic signal, such as a first red light or “stop”signal. In such cases, the second traffic signal can be a second redsignal. The second traffic light structure can be operable to displayadditional traffic signals, such as a green signal, green light, or “go”signal. The second traffic light structure can also display a yellowsignal, yellow light, or “caution” signal.

A method of displaying traffic signals described herein can be carriedout in any manner not inconsistent with the objectives of the presentinvention. In some embodiments, a method described herein is carried outusing a traffic signaling apparatus described hereinabove in Section I.Thus, in some cases, the first and second traffic light structures of amethod described herein can be the first and second traffic lightstructures of a traffic signaling apparatus of Section I. For example,in one embodiment, the traffic light structure comprises a first signallight operable to display a first traffic signal, the second trafficlight structure comprises a second signal light operable to display thesecond traffic signal and the first signal light can be larger than thesecond signal light. Further, the second traffic light structure can beattached to a substantially horizontal cable or a substantiallyhorizontal mast arm. The first traffic light structure can be attachedto the second traffic light structure or the horizontal mast arm by apole. Further, in some cases, the second traffic light structure is atleast 3 feet below the first traffic light structure. Additionally, insome embodiments, the first and second traffic light structures aresubstantially vertically aligned.

Referring again to the drawings, FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate one embodimentof a traffic signaling apparatus described herein positioned above anintersection (600) for displaying traffic signals according to oneembodiment of a method described herein. As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and7, the first traffic light structure (100) can effectively extend thevisibility of a traffic signal to a driver whose vision of the secondtraffic light structure (300) may be impaired by a large or tall vehicle(700), such as a commercial transport truck. Specifically, the driver ofa following vehicle (800) approaching the intersection (600) behind thetall vehicle (700) may, at a particular distance from the intersection(600), have a first line of sight (810) between the driver and a redlight (310) of the second traffic light structure (300) that isobstructed by the tall vehicle (700). However, the driver of thefollowing vehicle (800) may also have a second line of sight (820)between the driver and a red light (110) of the first traffic lightstructure (100) that is not obstructed by the tall vehicle (700).Therefore, the driver of the following vehicle (800) may be providedwith more time and information to make a safer driving decision thanmight otherwise be possible.

Various embodiments of the invention have been described in fulfillmentof the various objectives of the invention. It should be recognized thatthese embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles of thepresent invention. Numerous modifications and adaptations thereof willbe readily apparent to those skilled in the art without departing fromthe spirit and scope of the invention.

That which is claimed is:
 1. A traffic signaling apparatus comprising: afirst traffic light structure; and a second traffic light structure;wherein the second traffic light structure is attached to asubstantially horizontal cable or a substantially horizontal mast arm;wherein the first traffic light structure is attached by a pole to thesecond traffic light structure or to the mast arm; wherein the firsttraffic light structure is disposed at least three feet above the secondtraffic light structure; wherein the first traffic light structure issubstantially vertically aligned with the second traffic lightstructure; wherein the second traffic light structure is operable todisplay a red traffic signal and a green traffic signal; and wherein thefirst traffic light structure is operable to simultaneously display thered traffic signal displayed by the second traffic light structure. 2.The traffic signaling apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first trafficlight structure is operable to simultaneously display the green trafficsignal displayed by the second traffic light structure.
 3. The trafficsignaling apparatus of claim 2, wherein the second traffic lightstructure is operable to display a yellow traffic signal and the firsttraffic light structure is operable to simultaneously display the yellowtraffic signal displayed by the second traffic light structure.
 4. Thetraffic signaling apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first and secondtraffic light structures are in signal communication with one another.5. The traffic signaling apparatus of claim 1 further comprising anelectrical connection between the first traffic light structure and thesecond traffic light structure or between an external signal source andthe first and second traffic light structures.
 6. The traffic signalingapparatus of claim 1 further comprising one or more signaling componentsin wireless communication with the first traffic light structure and/orthe second traffic light structure.
 7. The traffic signaling apparatusof claim 1, wherein the second traffic light structure is attached tothe mast arm.
 8. The traffic signaling apparatus of claim 7, wherein thefirst traffic light structure is attached to the mast arm by the pole.9. The traffic signaling apparatus of claim 1, wherein the secondtraffic light structure is attached to the cable and the first trafficlight structure is attached to the second traffic light structure by thepole.
 10. The traffic signaling apparatus of claim 9 further comprisingat least one counterweight configured to maintain the position of thefirst traffic light structure above the second traffic light structure.11. The traffic signaling apparatus of claim 1, wherein the firsttraffic light structure comprises a first red signal light fordisplaying the red traffic signal and the second traffic light structurecomprises a second red signal light for displaying the red trafficsignal, and the first red signal light is larger than the second redsignal light.
 12. A method of displaying traffic signals comprising:displaying a first traffic signal in a first traffic light structure;and simultaneously displaying a second traffic signal in a secondtraffic light structure at least three feet below the first trafficlight structure, wherein the second traffic signal is the same color oftraffic signal as the first traffic signal; and wherein the firsttraffic light structure and the second traffic light structure aresubstantially vertically aligned.
 13. The method of claim 12, whereinthe first traffic light structure is attached by a pole to the secondtraffic light structure or to a substantially horizontal mast aim, andthe second traffic light structure is attached to a substantiallyhorizontal cable or to the mast arm.
 14. The method of claim 13, whereinthe second traffic light structure is attached to the cable.
 15. Themethod of claim 13, wherein the second traffic light structure isattached to the mast arm.
 16. The method of claim 12 further comprisingdisplaying a third traffic signal in the first traffic light structureand simultaneously displaying a fourth traffic signal in the secondtraffic light structure, wherein the fourth traffic signal is the samecolor of traffic signal as the third traffic signal.
 17. The method ofclaim 16 further comprising displaying a fifth traffic signal in thefirst traffic light structure and simultaneously displaying a sixthtraffic signal in the second traffic light structure, wherein the sixthtraffic signal is the same color of traffic signal as the fifth trafficsignal.
 18. The method of claim 12, wherein the first traffic lightstructure is operable to display a single traffic signal.
 19. The methodof claim 18, wherein the single traffic signal is a first red trafficsignal.
 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the second traffic signal isa second red traffic signal.